The old but charming venue, the Liverpool Olympia, has played host to a wide range of performances and events; from concerts and operas to plays and comedy shows. The building’s versatility and adaptability have made it a popular choice for a variety of productions, and its reputation as a premier entertainment venue has attracted some of the biggest names in the industry. On September 1st 2024 it hosted the long-awaited concert of Gossip. The gig was promoting their new, sixth studio album, ‘Real Power’, produced by the famous Rick Rubin. It is their first album in fourteen years.
The Liverpool audience has been waiting for this gig for many years. Quite a few probably remember Gossip gig at the Liverpool Academy many years ago, where band’s live album was recorded. Mixed crowd of all ages filled the room just after 7:30pm, all ready for the show. The evening started with an energetic Scottish rock band, Dead Pony, led by charismatic vocalist Anna Shields. The band promoted their debut album, “Ignore This”. Glaswegian rockers proved to be one of the most interesting new Rock bands, and definitely one to follow. Formed in 1999, Gossip has been a staple of the indie rock scene for over two decades, with their unique blend of post-punk, new wave, and dance influences. The band’s music has always been characterized by Beth Ditto’s powerful vocals, infectious hooks, and a sense of raw energy that has captivated audiences worldwide. Throughout their career, The Gossip has been praised for their unapologetic lyrics, which celebrate female empowerment, queer identity, and body positivity. Beth Ditto’s powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence have made her a beloved figure in the indie rock community. Just after 9 o’clock, the band appeared on the stage. It’s amazing to see how shy like, at the beginning, Ditto changed into a confident and strong front woman during the course of the performance.
The band’s latest album, “Real Power”, was well-represented, with standout tracks like “Act of God” and “Crazy Again” receiving rapturous reception from the crowd. Ditto’s vocal range is impressive, and she effortlessly switches between soft, sultry tones and raw, punk-infused screams. The band expertly balances their older material with newer tracks from their latest album. The crowd was entertained by the likes of “Heavy Cross” and “Standing in the Way of Control’. Ditto and her bandmates: Nathan Howdeshell, supporting musicians Teddy Kwo and Bijoux Cone, and surprisingly, not Hannah Blilie on drums, but Christina Files just controlled the public. Throughout the performance, Ditto was a whirlwind of energy, bounding across the stage with a kinetic intensity that was impossible to ignore. Her rapport with the crowd was palpable; she bantered with the audience, telling us lots of great stories. Her connection with the audience is second to none. Gossip’s Liverpool Olympia show was a triumph, evidence of the band’s enduring talent, energy, and passion. If you get the chance to see them live, don’t hesitate; it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Set List:
Listen Up!/Four Letter Word/Act of God/Love Long Distance/Yr Mangled Heart/Men in Love/Give It Up for Love/Get Lost/Turn the Card Slowly/Move in the Right Direction/Jason’s Basement/Coal To Diamonds/Crazy Again/Heavy Cross Encore: Dimestore Diamond/Yesterday’s News/Standing in the Way of Control
GOSSIP
DEAD PONY
Photos + Review by Tomas Adam | Exclusively for Music, Why Not!
